Top 11 Floral Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for floral managers in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. They can help employers assess a candidate’s qualifications and capabilities when selecting a job candidate. Additionally, certifications can provide employers with an assurance of quality and professionalism that they may not be able to get from an unqualified applicant. Furthermore, certifications can give floral managers the opportunity to stay current on industry trends and developments, which can increase their value to employers. Finally, certifications can also provide floral managers with networking opportunities, enabling them to build relationships with other professionals in the industry that may lead to future job opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Floral Managers and explains how they can help to further a Floral Manager's career.

What are Floral Manager Certifications?

Floral manager certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional's knowledge and expertise in floral management. This certification is offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) and is designed to help floral managers develop their skills, gain recognition, and advance their careers.

The certification requires a combination of education, experience, and commitment to the field of floral design, as well as successful completion of the AIFD Floral Management Exam. This exam tests a manager's knowledge in areas such as business practices, customer service, marketing strategies, financial management, product knowledge, and safety standards.

By obtaining this certification, floral managers demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the industry and can become more competitive job applicants. Certified professionals are also eligible for higher salaries since they have proven their expertise in floral management. Additionally, certified professionals can gain access to exclusive industry events and networking opportunities which can lead to new career opportunities or promotions within their current workplace.

Pro Tip: When pursuing floral manager certification, make sure to research the requirements and regulations of your local area. In some cases, certain certifications may be required for you to legally operate a flower shop or other related business. Additionally, it's important to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices so that you can provide quality service to your customers.

Related: What does a Floral Manager do?

Top 11 Floral Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Floral Managers today.

1. American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) Certification

The American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the art of floral design. AIFD’s mission is to recognize and promote the highest standards of creativity, quality, and professionalism in the floral industry. AIFD Certification is an advanced level of recognition for floral designers who have achieved a high level of expertise and skill in their craft.

In order to become AIFD Certified, applicants must first complete an extensive application process that includes: submitting a portfolio of work samples, providing references from peers or employers, passing a written exam, and completing an on-site practical exam. The entire process typically takes 6-12 months to complete.

The cost for AIFD certification varies depending on the type of membership you choose. There are three types of memberships: Professional Membership ($225/year), Associate Membership ($125/year), and Student Membership ($75/year). Each membership comes with different benefits including discounts on educational courses and materials, access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities, and more.

Once certified, members are entitled to use the AIFD logo on business cards and marketing materials as well as receive discounts on products from select suppliers. They also gain access to exclusive events such as conferences and workshops where they can learn from other professionals in the field.

2. Certified Floral Designer (CFD)

Certified Floral Designer (CFD) is a professional designation awarded by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). It is a prestigious certification that recognizes floral designers who have demonstrated excellence in their profession.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the floral industry and pass an exam that covers topics such as design principles, flower care and handling, business practices, and customer service. Additionally, applicants must submit a portfolio of their best work for review by AIFD judges.

The process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. The cost to apply for certification ranges from $150-$350 depending on the level of membership with AIFD.

3. Certified Professional Floral Evaluator (CPFE)

Certified Professional Floral Evaluator (CPFE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). It is designed to recognize and honor those individuals who have achieved excellence in the field of floral design. The CPFE certification is based on an extensive knowledge test, which covers topics such as plant care, flower arranging, color theory, and design principles.

The CPFE certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must first submit a written application to AIFD. This application includes personal information and a portfolio of past work that demonstrates their floral design skills. After submitting the application, applicants will be invited to take the CPFE knowledge test. This test consists of multiple choice questions that cover topics related to flower arrangement and design principles.

Once applicants pass the knowledge test, they must then complete a practical exam that requires them to create three different floral designs within a given time frame. After completing both exams, applicants will receive their CPFE certificate from AIFD.

The cost for obtaining the CPFE certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $1,000 USD to get certified as a Certified Professional Floral Evaluator (CPFE).

4. American Society of Floral Designers (ASFD) Certification

The American Society of Floral Designers (ASFD) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes floral designers who have demonstrated the highest level of skill and knowledge in their field. The ASFD Certification is a voluntary, non-profit program that provides floral designers with an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the art and science of floral design.

The ASFD Certification process involves two steps: passing an online exam and submitting a portfolio of work. The online exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to the principles and techniques of floral design. Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants must submit a portfolio of five original designs that showcase their skills and creativity. Each portfolio should include photographs, sketches, or drawings which illustrate the applicant's creative approach to each design.

The entire process typically takes between three and six months depending on how quickly applicants complete their portfolios and submit them for review.

In order to obtain ASFD Certification, applicants must pay a fee which covers the cost of administering the exams as well as providing support throughout the certification process. The fee for ASFD Certification is $400 USD for members and $450 USD for non-members.

5. International Association of Professional Florists (IAPF) Certification

The International Association of Professional Florists (IAPF) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of florists. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a florist’s commitment to excellence in the floral industry.

The IAPF Certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the areas of flower arranging, customer service, business operations, and floral design. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the IAPF. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as flower varieties, care and handling, design techniques, customer service, business operations, and more.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the IAPF Certification process. To get started, applicants must first register with the IAPF and pay a registration fee. They then have access to online study materials and resources to help them prepare for the exam. Once they are ready to take the exam, they can schedule it at any IAPF approved testing center or take it online from home.

The cost of becoming certified through the IAPF varies depending on where you live and if you choose to take the exam online or in person at a testing center. Generally speaking, it will cost around $300-$400 USD for registration fees plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam in person at a testing center.

6. National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) Certificate in Floristry

The National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) Certificate in Floristry is an internationally recognised qualification that provides the knowledge and skills necessary to become a professional florist. It is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in floristry or gain further qualifications in the field.

The NAFAS Certificate in Floristry consists of four modules: Introduction to Floristry, Design Principles, Practical Skills, and Business Skills. Each module has its own assessment criteria and must be completed successfully before progressing onto the next module. The course takes approximately one year to complete, although this can vary depending on individual progress.

To get the NAFAS Certificate in Floristry, you must first complete an application form and pay a fee of £150. You will then be assigned a tutor who will provide guidance throughout the course. Once all four modules have been successfully completed, you will receive your certificate from NAFAS.

The cost of the NAFAS Certificate in Floristry varies depending on where you take it and how many modules you choose to do; however, it typically costs between £500-£800 for all four modules.

7. Certified Wedding & Event Planner (CWEP)

Certified Wedding & Event Planner (CWEP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Association of Certified Wedding Planners (AACWP). The program is designed to provide wedding and event planners with the knowledge and skills they need to plan successful weddings and events.

The CWEP program consists of three courses: Event Planning Fundamentals, Wedding Planning Fundamentals, and Business Management for Planners. Each course is designed to provide students with an understanding of industry best practices, as well as the tools needed to plan successful events.

The program typically takes between four and six months to complete, depending on the student’s availability. During this time, students are required to complete online coursework, attend webinars, participate in group discussions, and take exams. Upon completion of all three courses and passing the final exam, students will receive their CWEP certification.

The cost for the CWEP program varies depending on which payment option you choose. The full price for the program is $1,495 USD; however, there are several payment plans available that can reduce this cost significantly.

To get started with the CWEP program you must first register online at AACWP’s website. Once your registration has been completed you will be able to access all course materials and begin your studies right away!

8. Certified Professional Florist (CPF)

Certified Professional Florist (CPF) is a professional certification program developed by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). It is designed to recognize and promote florists who demonstrate exceptional skill, knowledge and professionalism in the floral industry.

To become a CPF, a florist must have at least two years of professional experience in the floral industry and pass an exam that covers topics such as design principles, customer service, product knowledge, business management and marketing. The exam is administered by AIFD and consists of both written and practical components.

The cost of the CPF program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of AIFD. For members, the cost is $295 USD; for non-members it is $395 USD. This fee includes your application fee, exam fee, study materials and membership dues if applicable.

The entire process can take up to six months from start to finish but can be completed in as little as three months if you are well prepared for the exam. To get started on your journey to becoming a CPF, you will need to complete an application form and submit it with all required documents to AIFD. Once your application has been approved, you will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam successfully, you will be awarded your CPF certificate.

9. Professional Florist Certification Program (PFCP)

The Professional Florist Certification Program (PFCP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide florists with the skills and knowledge to become successful professionals in the floral industry. The PFCP is offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), which is an internationally recognized organization that promotes excellence in floral design.

The PFCP consists of three levels of certification: Certified Floral Designer (CFD), Certified Professional Florist (CPF), and Master Floral Designer (MFD). Each level requires different qualifications, such as experience, education, and exams.

To become certified at each level, applicants must first complete an application form and pay the appropriate fee. Once approved, they must then complete a series of courses and examinations. The length of time it takes to complete each level varies depending on the individual's experience and prior knowledge. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to two years to obtain CFD certification; two to four years for CPF certification; and four or more years for MFD certification.

The cost for each level depends on the number of courses taken and exams completed. Typically, CFD certification costs between $2,000-$3,500; CPF certification costs between $3,500-$5,000; and MFD certification costs between $5,000-$10,000.

Upon completion of all requirements for a particular level of certification, applicants will receive their certificate from AIFD indicating their professional status as a floral designer.

10. Master Floral Designer (MFD)

Master Floral Designer (MFD) is a certification program offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). The MFD certification is the highest level of floral design training available in the United States and is recognized as a mark of excellence among professional floral designers.

The MFD program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on design workshop. The online course covers topics such as color theory, flower care and handling, design principles, and business practices. Upon completion of the online course, participants must attend an in-person workshop to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in floral design.

It typically takes about 18 months to complete all the requirements for the MFD certification. To get started, applicants must register for the online course and pay a fee of $750 USD. After completing the online course, applicants must attend an in-person workshop which costs an additional $1,500 USD.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants receive their Master Floral Designer certificate from AIFD. This certificate recognizes that they have achieved a high level of proficiency in floral design and are qualified to work professionally as a floral designer.

11. Society of American Florists’ Certified Professional Florist Program

The Society of American Florists’ Certified Professional Florist (CPF) Program is a certification program designed to recognize the professional florists who demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the floral industry. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to excellence and professional development.

The CPF Program consists of three levels: Certified Professional Florist (CPF), Master Floral Designer (MFD), and Certified Floral Educator (CFE). Each level requires different educational requirements, as well as passing a written exam. To become a CPF, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the floral industry and must pass a written exam covering topics such as design principles, flower care and handling, customer service, and business management. The MFD level requires five years of experience in the floral industry, plus additional coursework or continuing education courses, as well as passing an advanced written exam. The CFE level requires at least seven years of experience in the floral industry, plus additional coursework or continuing education courses, plus passing an advanced written exam.

In order to obtain any of these certifications, applicants must first submit an application with proof of their experience in the floral industry. Once accepted into the program, they will receive study materials for their chosen certification level and will be required to take an online test or attend a live class depending on their location. After successfully completing all requirements for their chosen certification level, they will receive their certificate from SAF.

The cost for each certification level varies depending on which one you choose. For example, the cost for CPF is $195; MFD is $295; and CFE is $395.

Do You Really Need a Floral Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and objectives. If someone is looking to advance their career in floral management or become a floral manager, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial. A certificate can demonstrate that the individual has knowledge and experience in the field of floral management, which may help them stand out from other applicants. Additionally, it may provide access to additional resources, such as networking opportunities and job-specific training courses.

However, if someone is already employed in a related field and is looking for more responsibility or higher pay, then they may not need a formal certification. In these cases, it may be best to focus on gaining more experience through hands-on learning or continuing education classes related to the field of floral management. The decision ultimately depends on the individual's desired career path and current level of knowledge and skills.

Related: Floral Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Floral Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Floral Manager Certification?

A1. A Floral Manager Certification is an official recognition of a professional’s knowledge and skills in the field of floral design, management and retailing. It is awarded by organizations such as the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) or the Society of American Florists (SAF).

Q2. What are the benefits of having a Floral Manager Certification?

A2. Having a Floral Manager Certification provides numerous benefits including increased credibility with customers, better job prospects, and higher pay rates. As well, it demonstrates professionalism and commitment to the industry, which can help you stand out from other candidates.

Q3. How do I become certified as a Floral Manager?

A3. To become certified as a Floral Manager, you must first meet certain educational requirements and pass an examination administered by either AIFD or SAF. You may also need to have some practical experience in floral design or management before taking the exam.

Q4. How long does it take to get a Floral Manager Certification?

A4. The amount of time required to get a certification varies depending on your starting level of knowledge and experience in the field, but typically it takes at least six months to complete all the necessary steps for certification.

Q5. Is there an age limit for getting a Floral Manager Certification?

A5. Generally speaking, no – there is no age limit for becoming certified as a floral manager; however individual organizations may have their own requirements that must be met in order to qualify for certification with them specifically.